Plant Care 101: How to Care for Calathea
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Time to read 4 min
Introduction & Origins
Calathea, also known as Prayer Plants, are the perfect addition to brighten your indoor space. With their vibrant patterns and lush, tropical appearance, these plants bring life and elegance to any home. This care guide also applies to their close relatives, Goeppertia, Ctenanthe and Stromanthe, making it an excellent resource for keeping these stunning plants healthy and thriving.
Calathea became popular as houseplants during the 19th century when European plant collectors brought tropical flora back to display in botanical gardens and conservatories. Since then, their exotic beauty and non-toxic nature have made them a favourite among plant enthusiasts worldwide.
Calathea plants are called "Prayer Plants" due to their unique behaviour: their leaves fold upwards at night, resembling hands in prayer. This fascinating movement, known as nyctinasty, is a response to changing light levels and adds an interactive charm to your plant care routine.
💡 Did you know?
The Calathea genus was historically larger but has recently been reclassified. Many plants previously grouped under Calathea are now placed in the Goeppertia genus, though they are still commonly called Calathea in cultivation.
What Lighting is Best for Calthea?
Calathea thrive in medium to bright indirect light . Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves and cause their vibrant patterns to fade. Indirect light refers to light that does not hit the plant directly, such as sunlight filtered through sheer curtains or reflected off walls.
While they can tolerate low light conditions, insufficient lighting may slow their growth or dull their striking foliage. If you're struggling to find the right balance, consider placing your Calathea in a spot that receives dappled sunlight or near an east-facing window.
How Often Should I Water My Calathea?
Consistency is key when watering Calathea. These plants prefer moist but not soggy soil.
Water your Calathea when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can lead to leaf curling or browning.
Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Tip: Use dechlorinated or rainwater for best results, as Calathea are sensitive to the chemicals and minerals found in tap water.
What Humidity Is Best for My Calathea?
Native to the tropical jungle floors, Calathea flourish in high humidity levels of 50–60% or more. Unfortunately, most indoor environments are too dry for them without some assistance. Here's how you can boost humidity:
Place a humidifier near your plant for consistent moisture.
Situate them in naturally humid areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
Group plants together to create a microclimate.
Misting, while still popular, offers little long-term benefit and may even promote fungal issues. Instead, prioritise more effective humidity-boosting methods.
How Should I Repot My Calathea?
Repotting Calathea every 1–2 years is ideal to provide fresh soil and room for growth. Use a well-draining, peat-based soil mix. Calathea can be sensitive to excess salts and minerals, so always.
Our Simply Houseplant Mix is perfect for Calathea as it has been designed from the ground up as a high-quality, all-purpose repotting mix designed to give excellent results with a wide range of indoor houseplants.
When repotting, gently loosen the roots and place the plant in a slightly larger pot. Avoid over-sizing the pot, as this can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot.
Common Problems with Calathea and How to Solve Them
Calathea plants are known to be finicky houseplants, so if you’ve got the odd brown or yellowing leaf, don’t worry, you’re not alone! Despite your best efforts, they can still encounter issues. Below are some common problems, their causes, and effective solutions to keep your plant thriving.
Leaf curling or browning edges are usually caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering. Calatheas thrive in high-humidity environments, so increasing the moisture around the plant is crucial. You can use a humidifier, a pebble tray, or group plants together to boost humidity. Maintaining a consistent watering schedule is equally important, ensuring the soil doesn’t dry out completely or become overly saturated.
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage. When the soil remains too wet, the roots can become waterlogged, leading to stress and even root rot. To fix this, allow the topsoil to dry slightly before watering again. Ensure the pot has proper drainage, and check the roots for signs of rot, trimming away any affected parts if necessary.
Pest infestations can also plague Calatheas, with common culprits being spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests are often drawn to dry conditions and can damage the plant by feeding on its sap. If pests are present, gently wipe the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increasing humidity can also deter these unwelcome visitors. For severe infestations, isolating the plant and using stronger treatments may be necessary.
Faded or dull foliage usually results from too much direct sunlight or insufficient light. Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light, so placing them near an east-facing window or shielding them with sheer curtains is ideal. If your space doesn’t get enough natural light, using a grow light can help restore their vibrant patterns and colours.
Trending Calathea at GrowTropicals
Looking for inspiration? These are some of the most popular varieties to consider adding to your collection.
And don't forget - Calathea are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a safe choice for homes with curious pets or small children.
Need More Help with Your Calathea Houseplants?
Caring for plants can be a rewarding experience, adding beauty and elegance to your home. If you have specific questions or need personalised advice, feel free to reach out to us at hello@growtropicals.com. Our plant experts are here to help you keep your Calathea thriving.
Explore our full collection of Calathea and plant care products to find everything you need for a flourishing indoor jungle.
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